Libs and Commies (ATTN Falsea, CLOSED IC )

[Namor]

Namo, Namor

Minister of Foreign Affairs Tzo To stands tall in Namo International Airport along with his henchmen. They were dispatched by the Namorese government to welcome the Falsean delegation who will be visiting Namor for a week, for diplomatic reasons and to enjoy what Namor has to offer.

The agenda had already been set: the Falsean Secretary-General will visit top Namorese leaders, then the leaders of the Namorese Communist Party, and then visit Nozama City, Mojing and the autonomous area of Txotai, located near the Luziycan and Geadish border.

"Sir, the plane's landing." one of the henchmen signaled.

Tzo To snapped his fingers, and the Namo People's Marching Band began playing "Welcome the Guest" as the Falsea Sky plane touched ground, and the leaders began filing out. Tzo To fixed his suit and tie, and prepared to shake hands with whoever came to him first.

[Falsea]

Namo, Namor

"Alright, we're here. Game faces everybody, this is my first state visit to a foreign country, and no less within a day after my inauguration.", exclaimed Falsea's newly elected President and Party Secretary-General, Louise Rourke. Beside him sat his wife, Hailey Rourke, and the newly appointed top diplomat of Falsea and Minister of State, Lara Hopkins.

The private jet belonging to Falsea Sky had just landed in Namo International Airport in the country of Namor, an Oriental country that was capitalist, but nevertheless shared friendly relations with the People's Republic. The new president had engineered his foreign policy much earlier compared to his predecessor, and this policy included increasing ties with nations who practices both freemarket policies and reformist methods of Marxism-Leninism.

Namor, a country with a rich history, proud heritage, and functioning democracy, was the country the president had first chosen to embark on a state visit upon, signifying his position on Democratic Socialist countries for years to come. Though originally the president had planned only for a brief, discreet meeting with the Communist Party of Namor, he nevertheless decided to expand the visit and meet with official government ministers for discussion of diplomacy and ways of strengthening bilateral ties.

Now was the perfect time. In a regional environment plagued by monarchies and isolationist dictatorships and further destroyed by political upheavals, it was impossible not to like visiting countries not part of your daily routine.

Once the plane had finished landing and the air stairs were placed in front of the jet's door, the three people got out quickly. Walking with the almost perfect posture he was known for, Secretary-General Rourke led the delegation as they descended down the stairs. A band could easily be heard playing a melodic tune in the background, to which Hailey enjoyed.

The two women followed from behind, and by the time they reached the foot of the stairs, Secretary-General Rourke was already walking towards the Namorese Foreign Minister.

[Namor]

Namo International Airport

"Sir, I believe that is Louise Rourke, Secretary-General of the Falsean People's Party and the Falsean People's Republic," said one of Tzo's assistant.

"Ah, Comrade Rourke, welcome to the People's Republic of Namor," Tzo To as he shook the Secretary-General's hand. "I believe this is your first time in our country, yes? Congratulations for becoming your country's newest leader, I hope everything's going well in your country." He chuckled. When it came to the leader's wife, he shook his hand as well. The Secretary-General continued to shake the hands of the rest of the Namorese delegation awaiting them.

That's when the Minister of State, Lara Hopkins, came. Tzo To shook hands again.

The marching band played the Namorese and Falsean anthems, and then the Falsean delegation was taken in limos, which then drove across downtown Namo.

As they drove, the skyscrapers of Namo approached them, as well as the traditional buildings that was buried beneath it. The limos drive for about ten minutes until it reached the Executive House, where the President, Jamin Chen, lives, and will live until May Day (called International Labour Day in Namor) when Alicia Wolf moves in as the country's next President.

Executive House
President Jamin Chen, Vice-President Txo Antelope and Speaker Alicia Wolf lined up with the rest of the other part of the Namorese delegation in the Executive House, prepared to welcome their Falsean guests.

[Falsea]

Namo

"It is an honor to visit your beautiful country. Thank you for your words, I'am glad the radical Anderson was ousted as well, and our country can embark on a refined path of non-interventionism.", he said to Tzo with a warm smile akin to that of expert diplomats, shaking hands while he was at it. His wife and State Minister followed suit as well, meeting with the delegation.

Introductions were exchanged and small chatter manifested itself, as the marching band played both the Namorese National Anthem and State Hymn of Falsea, State Minister Hopkins being impressed herself by the quality of the music played by the band. After a few minutes or so, the Secretary-General and the rest of the delegation were soon whisked into a limousine, where they began heading towards the place of the meeting.

The three delegates had one limo to themselves, and as they passed through the downtown portion of Namor's capital city, Hailey couldn't avoid observing and being impressed by the highly developed urban infrastructure of the city. The perfect mix of modern amenities and traditional ways were kept in harmony within the city, as besides the towering skyscrapers, buildings built in old styles of Namorese culture could also be seen every once and a while.

"What's the matter Hailey? I think Belgrade has enough highrises to make you display that face of awe you have now.", said the president jokingly. The trio laughed at the joke as the limo took a left from the downtown into another street.

"Well, Belgrade doesn't really have the uniquely styled buildings this city has. I mean look at that.", she retorted with a chuckle, motioning for a nearby temple designed in medieval architecture.

"That is impressive.", she said, facing the two others. The rest of the trip was silent for the most part, and they eventually arrived at the Executive House, which exemplified the qualities of Namo better than any other building they've passed throughout the journey.

"Alright, this is where the visits start. I hope you will lead the talks pertaining to diplomacy, Hopkins?", said the president as they disembarked from the vehicle.

"Yes sir, Before this trip is over, we will have another ally in our fight against nations such as Hippostania.", responded Hopkins in a positive tone, before they made their way inside the building.

[Namor]

"Pleasure to meet you, Secretary-General Rourke," Chen said with a smile as he shook the Falsean leader's hand. He then did the same thing to the rest of the delegation, as did Vice-President Antelope and Speaker Wolf. "Come, sit down, sit down."

Chen then ordered several assistants to help the whole of the Falsean delegation on three, white sofas. They were all in the Hall of Deliverance, where all meetings with foreign leaders were held. "Settle down," he said. "I think we have some tea coming in. Alicia, where's the tea?" he called for the Speaker.

"They're here," Wolf replied back. Following that, five men dressed in suits came in the Hall with cups of tea, and served them to the Falsean delegates.

Once the delegation settled down, Chen began speaking.

"I would like to welcome the Secretary-General, his wife and Minister Hopkins to Namor," he said. "And I see that Falsea has a new leader, eh? Well, congratulations." The President grinned, then nodded. "For years, our two countries have had a peaceful, prosperous and great relationship. Despite our two countries having differences in political ideology and economic system, we don't give a damn. All we care is if the other country is willing to co-exist with us and share the fruits of mutual benefit.

"Thing is, Falsea and Namor both won their freedoms at the same time period, the former in 1955 and the latter five years earlier. Both of our countries have fled the chains of oppression, taking different routes to seek an end to suffering and tyranny. Under my administration, I had kept the promise to strengthen relations with Falsea--and every other country as much as possible--and do my best to overcome any possible obstacle that can come my way. And I do hope Wolf will do the same when she becomes President in four months or so."

"That is true," Wolf replied. "As President-elect, I will see what I can do to strengthen Namo-Falsean relations." She nodded, and Chen continued.

"So, Secretary-General, as this is your first day in Namor, have you anything to say?"

[Falsea]

"Likewise, it is my pleasure to meet you, President Chen.", responded the Secretary-General as he and the rest of the delegation walked inside the Hall of Deliverance. The Falsean shook the president's hands, followed by Hailey and Hopkins. Looking to his side, he saw the vice president Antelope and the president-elect Wolf was present as well. Approaching them, he introduce himself and shook their hands before the trio sat down to the nearby seats offered to them.

Pairs of uniformed assistants soon entered the hall as well, each one holding a tray containing cups of tea. The assistants laid down the trays and served the six people in the hall with the tea. As they left, the Secretary-General thanked them, taking a short sip of the hot beverage. The State Minister did so as well, though Hailey didn't, not exactly being fond of tea herself.

"Thank you, President Chen, it was a hard battle, seeing that the Social Democracy faction was a strong contender. Anyways, it is our utmost honor to be able to visit Namor today. Although it may sound odd that I embarked on a state visit just a day after my inauguration, it is just a move that I plan to strengthen the bilateral ties of Falsea with other nations, especially those that the party considers a capitalist or reformist nation.", he said, returning the head of state's smile as he explained the visit.

"It is true. We are glad that your country holds the same view as us. We are working under that foreign policy as well, known as the Openness and Equality policy in Falsea. It entails and encourages having strong diplomatic relations with all nations regardless of political, economic, and social ideology.", exclaimed the State Minister. The Secretary-General nodded to Hopkin's statement, seeing that it was the truth, as Chen continued on.

"Yes, I believe Namor obtained it's independence on 1960? just 5 years later than us. We have battled the tyrannical Tsardom of Falsea before and their ideas of Enlightened Absolutism. And what about Namor, what have they fought against? is it a Monarchy exploiting the people as well, or an Imperialist power?", he asked. The Secretary-General had no time to brush up on the history of foreign states he was going to visit, and even now he was slightly worried. Brushing the thought off, he spoke again.

"Well, my goals of this visit are to increase the cooperation between our two states to a higher degree. I'am aware that there is some small trade between our countries, and we have exchanged embassies as well, but I wish to work further than that, to signify Falsea's solidarity with other nations that the party had previously labelled as reformist. That is, practicing a left-wing ideology in government but not as a Marxist-Leninist state."

"I have many plans and suggestions, though I would like to know if you're open to discussion?", asked the Secretary-General, looking at the three Namorese.

[Namor]

"I am glad that the Falseans have finally decided to develop an open door policy, and had they not, I would have questioned why they would. I don't believe Marx or Lenin ever advocated anything about a closed isolationist nation; therefore, I believe that having an open door policy would not let your Party turn back on your principles.

"And no, the People's Republic of Namor received its freedom in 1950, five years before the Falseans did," Chen corrected the Secretary-General with a smile. "The people of Namor were being oppressed by a right-wing, conservative dictatorship similar to that of Luziyca's. Therefore, under the leadership of Yunglang Antelope we overthrew the Republicans by force and installed a Republic truly for the people."

When the Secretary-General asked if Namor was willing to further cooperate with Falsea, Chen nodded. "Of course, why not? Our country, although pursuing a non-interventionist foreign policy, sure accepts some cooperation. After all, we're not that isolated as East Chorea." The rest of the Namorese delegation chuckled. "Therefore, me and my colleagues are always open for discussion on the future of Namo-Falsean relations. I believe Minister Tzo there has an agenda."

Chen turned to the Vice-President. "Where's Minister Tzo?"

"I believe he has followed the Falseans from the airport, hasn't he?" Txo Antelope replied back. "He's probably somewhere in the first floor of the Executive House. Here, I'll tell him to come upstairs."

As Txo rushed downstairs to invite Minister Tzo up, Wolf spoke. "As I can see, the Falseans have 'ousted' their former leader. May I inquire where Blake Anderson went?"

After an answer was given, Minister Tzo rushed to the meeting hall with the Vice-President, smiling. "I apologize, my friends, the President didn't invite me upstairs, so I just kept downstairs like an obedient child." He chuckled as Chen retorted jokingly, "Well, could've been less obedient...where's the agenda?"

"Here, President sir," Minister Tzo quickly caught up with the discussion held minutes before, and began. "Well, the first thing we would like to talk about is mutual defence. While Namor refuses to join any military alliance, that doesn't rule out the policy of possible military cooperation. As you can see, the Hippostanians are now involved in a silent plan to Esquarian expansionism. They are building bases in Luziyca and our ally Geadland. Surprising, as they are putting us in a disadvantage. As the Falseans know better, may I ask if your country is willing to undergo any military cooperation with us?"

[Falsea]

"True. Comrades Marx and Lenin didn't ever state that for a communist society to succeed, they must be isolationist. Such is Comrade Stalin, who, while having excellent goals, failed to achieve them through his 'socialism in one country' policy. I'am certain that making friends with nations who share more or less the same values as us are indeed not a dangerous move that would harm the party's ideological core.", he said in a voice of agreement, his smile slightly fading at the mention of Stalin.

Chen went on to correct Rourke about the victory of the Republican uprising led by Yunglang Antelope, and his smile returned as he and the other delegates slightly chuckled at the historical gaffe. The Secretary-General faced the Namorese again, recovering from the temporary intrusion.

"Ah, of course, 1950, 5 years earlier than Falsea. Quite remarkable how our two nations share a similar history. Conservatism is always an insect that will leech a country's progress, and thus must be removed, in my opinion. Glad that your national hero, Comrade Antelope, overthrew such a horrendous government.", he said, praising the country's founding father.

The discussion moved towards the negotiation of further cooperation, and State Minister Hopkins pursed her lips, awaiting for the President's response. Once Chen had responded positively, the Minister breathed a sigh of relief, making way for her briefcase. The Minister grabbed a white folder containing at least 4 papers, and faced the Namorese representatives.

Though before she could start, Minister To was out of sight, and the vice president was forced to fetch him downstairs. As they waited for the two, the State Minister took a sip of her tea, whilst the Secretary-General was left to answer Wolf's question.

"Secretary-General Anderson has seen low approval ratings ever since the second half of his 10-year term, and his radical social and foreign policies buried his approval rating down the grave. After a constitutional amendment to which he vehemently voiced opposition to was passed in the National Assembly, he had a falling out with the rest of his allies and was forced to back down on the election held in the party congress just this December 20.", he said to Wolf, describing as he minimally as he can the demise of the former Secretary-General. Though Rourke was an avid critic of Anderson's interventionist policy, he nevertheless had sympathy for the man.

Minister To arrived soon after, bearing a humorous smile. The Falsean delegation also had a laugh at the Minister's remark, and as everyone calmed down, the discussions resumed. The Secretary-General gestured for the Minister of State, who then answered To's question.

"The actions of Hippostania, and possibly their colleagues in the ACA, were inevitable. It was only a matter of time before they would embark on their plans for imperialistic conquest. They are strengthening their chokehold on your region through their dispersion of both soft and hard power and in order to prevent them from dominating your region, it is imperative that Namor maintain a no-nonsense stance towards Hippostanian expansion."

"We understand the plight you are undergoing, especially having a close ally being blinded by a hostile nation into their favor, and we would like you to know that the People's Republic of Falsea stands ready to come to the aid of Namor or Esquarium anytime, in case such nations as Hippostania, Luziyca, and Zokoria start a war and in order for us to effectively coordinate a force to help defend your country or region, it is vital that we have access to a few bases as well.", she said, unsure of how the Namorese would react at the suggestion. Coughing slightly, she continued.

"Of course, this is only a 'last option' measure and I can understand if you are not willing to accept such an offer. There are other ways by which we can cooperate militarily in preparation for an attack by those that view are nations as enemies. Bilateral military exercises, joint research on armaments, the possibilities are endless, yet the most effective option for our nations to have military cooperation while not infringing on one's sovereignty is by signing a mutual defense pact."

"Do you have other suggestions as well? we have seen Hippostania enroach upon the Nysan Organization as well, particularly within a specific monarchy known as Adwest, and truly it is our desire to see that possible aggression from these countries is nipped in the bud before things get worse."

[Namor]

"Hm..." President Chen mumbled as the Falseans proposed a mutual defense plan and the right for Falseans to build bases in Namor. He then turned to his colleagues, Antelope, To and Wolf, on how they should respond. It took a short while, and Wolf responded this time, as the President was unsure on how to respond.

"Secretary-General, with all due respect, my colleagues and I believe that this silent conflict is more complicated than your Party thinks. First things first, the Luziycan government, who I personally believe is no more than a puppet satellite state of Waverley, keeps calling us 'communist' and 'followers of Marx, Lenin and Stalin.' Indeed, Namor is open to military cooperation with anyone, even communist ones, but if we are to have the Falseans operate military bases in Namor, wouldn't the Luziycans, Zokorians and Hippostanians think the same way we are thinking right now, thinking of us as the red menace we aren't, and, like us accusing the spread of Hippostanian expansionism, wouldn't they accuse you of so-called 'Falsean expansionism?'

"Furthermore, though, we support a military drill between our two countries sometime in the near future. And no, hesitancy for the Falseans to build bases in Namor does not rule out the opportunities for our two countries to sign some sort of mutual defense treaty. However, as always we see several problems.

"First, I don't think that our Liberation Army has any ships or troops deployed anywhere in Nysa. That being said, if Falsea is to be under attack, how would we help you thousands of kilometers away? Surely, deployment to Nysa at that time would be too late unless some sort of miracle happens. Second, you do understand that we pursue a non-interventionist foreign policy. We are afraid that if anyone, whether it's Nutmeg or Hippostania or even Luziyca invade Falsea, that if we intervene as per a potential mutual defense act that some might look down upon us, and our reputation in front of the international community might be at stake, don't you think?"

[Falsea]

Secretary-General Rourke exchanged a glance with the State Minister as the Namorese thought of how to respond. Their reaction to this proposal would see if Falsean military action can be justified in Esquarium once an all-out war between the forces sympathetic to the ACA or directly allied to the ACA itself. Finally, the president-elect, Wolf, responded this time, coupled with the lack of intervention from either Chen, Antelope, or To.

"Well, I can understand. It is an important decision that would have guaranteed your country's safety if war broke out between your country and Hippostania and their cronies within their region, but nonetheless, it is also an imperative action to maintain one's image nowadays, especially in the eyes of a judgmental international community.", reacted the Secretary-General calmly, gauging the thoughts of the shrewd president-elect further.

"I also think however, that in when state security calls for it, one must do what is hard to do. You should not let the Luziycan government, which, obviously, are mentally ill, impede upon the decisions of your government especially when forces that threaten your nation's security are moving up. Don't you see, honorable madame, this silent war is going to turn into an explosive war soon, and Luziyca, possibly Zokoria and Hippostania as well, are battering your resistance. They are aware of Namor's image in the international community, and thus they are striking this particular area knowing that Namor will be forced to cut-off relations with what some would call radicals or Marxists, such as Falsea, because of your country's non-interventionist policy."

"The matter regarding the mutual defense treaty is a sad fact, and I must admit, I applaud your knowledge of Falsea's own external hardships. Yet I have an alternative; what if we uphold a Protectorate Treaty with Namor? in this treaty, if Namor is ever attacked by said forces of aggression, Falsea will intervene. We do not have the same reputation as you, so it would be absolutely fine for us to continue with such a ploy. What's say you?"

[Namor]

"Indeed, although Hippostania and our country has diplomatic relations, they tend to be strained due to their policy towards so-called 'leftist' nations." Chen spoke up. "However, the regimes of Luziyca and Zokoria do not recognize our government, calling it 'communist.' And I keep retorting them, saying that if Namor was actually communist, our country would not have a planned economy.

"As President, I believe that Namor can co-exist between a non-interventionist foreign policy and keeping the country's head held high at the same time. Yes, these expansionists may be wackos, but even wackos deserve a chance to negotiate with us before we declare war. Therefore, I--and hopefully you and your Party--support the policy that war be put in last resort.

"And of course, Secretary-General! A mutual defense treaty might not be realistic considering Namor's non-existent military prescence in Nysa, but we welcome any aid in times of war. Therefore, I support the Protectorate Treaty; however, I do request that military aid be given only when we request so, as our Liberation Army is usually self-reliant."

[Falsea]

"Such nations are the problem of both Namor and Falsea, who, while do not have the same system of political beliefs and economic policy, share the values that equality must be propagated. Unless Namor doesn't think so?", said the Secretary-General in response to the first statement made by Chen.

"Furthermore, I'am not suggesting that we go to war with them, what I merely was trying to say is that, we must always be ready for if war does break out. There is always a possibility because as you said so yourself, said regimes are crazy expansionists that seek to curb leftist ideology at every opportunity they get, which includes undermining regimes that aren't really leftist, in a sense.", he said quickly, following his previous statement. He was shifting his eyes between Chen and Wolf, trying to know what they were thinking, trying to differentiate their personalities.

Silence fell over the room after Rourke finished his statements and after a few minutes or so, it was the State Minister who spoke next, breaking the ice.

"Of course, we have respect for the sovereignty of Namor and thus this protectorate treaty will only come into effect if Namor requests so, so you have nothing to worry about.", she began with a serene smile, grabbing attention away from the Secretary-General, who by now fell silent. Rourke was known throughout the PRF for his silent intimidation when a debate or a disagreement came up, exhibited especially during the 7th NPC and standing in stark contrast with the previous president, Anderson, who often let the duty of expressing his opinion to his ministers.

"We should move on though, if there is nothing more you wish to add? if that is the case, I would like to present that a free trade treaty between our two countries is upheld. We would like to know, what are Namor's imports and exports?"

[Namor]

"I guess the issue on the Protectorate Treaty is settled then," replied Chen. "As long as every nation respects Namor's sovereignty, then there is nothing to worry about. And yes, I do believe that in this world, the only thing that sets all nations apart is ideology. That's IT. Despite this, every nation deserves equality, even the most conservative and the most leftist ones. All I ask now is when this Treaty can be signed."

He smiled again when the State Minister mentioned if Namor and Falsea can conduct trade, and asked for Namor's imports and exports.

"Well, this question would be best answered by the Minister of Economic Development, who unfortunately isn't here," Chen said. "However, this doesn't mean I couldn't answer it to the best of my ability. Namor imports many goods, mainly foodstuff and clothing, while our markets export electronic products as well as wheat, rice and petroleum to other countries. I understand that as a Marxist-Leninist state, Falsea is not so fond of trading with other nations, let alone let private companies own anything save for the special administrative regions; however, for the sake of economic development, our government is open to further trade relations with the People's Republic.

"A Free Trade Treaty? Why, sure, such a treaty will surely upgrade Namo-Falsean trade relations to its greatest height. Say, a request for a Free Trade Agreement doesn't sound like a request a Marxist-Leninist state would say, eh?" The rest of the Namorese delegation burst into laughter, until Chen continued. "Anyway, can you describe any details regarding this potential agreement?"

[Falsea]

"Of course, I agree with you, Chen. Would you mind if I call you that? surely there's no need to be too formal when the press isn't looking, right?", responded the Secretary-General heartily at the conclusion of the protectorate treaty. Rourke was always known as the energetic and fun-loving yet not brash politician, renowned since his days in the National Assembly as a sort of "class clown". Yet now he held one of the most powerful positions within the People's Republic, forcing Rourke to tone down his personality. Nonetheless, he still retained that fragment of bubbliness he had in his prime.

Minister Hopkins, one of the more serious members of Falsea's central organ, adjusted her seat as the Secretary-General bursted into light laughter. Facing the Namorese with her signature smile and glance, she spoke.

"Once we have concluded the discussions of what areas our two nations might cooperate in, the Ministry of State will fax me the required documents, the Memorandums of Agreement, for our respective delegations to sign.", she replied to the question by the President. A brief silence occurred as Minister Hopkins took another look at her file, while the Namorese explained their exports and imports.

The Secretary-General resumed the conversation as Hopkins listed down the information given.

"Yes, it is true. Falsea employs selective protectionism in trade, but there is no need to worry, for we only block our markets when we're dealing with nations who operate under a total, free-market system. I'am glad still that Namor is not like that, though I'am seeing that the private sector is gaining more prominence within your nation?", he asked at Chen's statement.

The President answered the question and spoke as well, reiterating the protectionist attitude of Marxism-Leninism. Hopkins looked up with a slightly offended look, though the Secretary-General just went along with it with a slight chuckle as well.

"I must ask though, what goods does Namor primarily require, perhaps raw materials? there are vast areas of trade our countries could work on, and now would certainly be the best ideas. We ourselves import mainly luxury goods and wood, due to the environmentalist efforts of the ruling party. Yet what we seek our goods that can be bought at a cheaper price, and since Namor is a mixed-market economy, I dare say we have the best chance of buying cheap yet quality products is from your country."

[Namor]

"Well, Namor would like to have all Falsea has to offer," Chen piped in. "And yes you are right, these days the private sector is growing more popular, ever since economic liberalisation began. But again, the public sector will keep it in check, so our nation wouldn't have to return to the old days, where corporations ruled. I'm sure you three have harsh words to say about corporatism? We here believes it is old-fangled and evil."

"Aye," said Wolf in response to Chen's remark.

"So yes, having a mixed economy has made all Namorese products lack price but not quality. These include electronic products and automobiles, which I believe the Falseans are interested in?"

[Falsea]

"I'am glad that such is the case. I wouldn't want a fine nation such as Namor fall prey to the evils of Laissez-Faire capitalism and worst of all, Corporatism. Such a mad system would be considered a dystopia by both the Falsean masses and of the party itself.", he responded to Chen regarding the idea that was suggested. Rourke despised the thought and shivered at the mere mention of it, growing up with egalitarian views from his community, always striving to impose an efficient state-socialist economy with little to no capitalism that would change the direction of Falsea's advance, from backwardness to progress.

"Well, capitalism is not all that bad, it does have it's advantages. It allows us to trade exotic and higher quality goods with other nations that have them, learn other cultures, and immerse our people within a state of business professionalism, competitiveness, and excellence, in my opinion.", interjected Rourke's wife suddenly. Michaels, a fellow professor of law before held mostly center-right views and was often at odds with Rourke regarding national policies he implemented. She looked around for either Hopkin's or Rourke's reaction, before resigning herself back to the tea.

"Moving on, yes, such goods are what we request further. We mostly get our high-tech equipment, though not high-tech military hardware, from foreign countries who have a bigger manufacturing sector than us, thus eradicating the need to produce such items ourselves. Luxury items and automobiles are also commodities we would like to be available for more of our countrymen, so yes.", started Hopkins after the statement made by the Secretary-General's wife.

"Currently, only few trade occurs between Namor and Falsea, and both impose high tariffs on one another due to the latter's socialist policies and vice versa. What I propose is that Namor bring more of it's goods within Falsea and over the span of 5 years, these tariffs will slowly decrease by a fair rate until it is completely gone and free trade occurs totally. See, we do not like just trading freely with other nations and thus, we take measures to prevent foreign companies from dominating our markets. In turn of this agreement, would Namor allow Falsea to either do the same, or to let us build a single military base within your territory?"

[Namor]

Chen listened attentively as the Falseans proposed the gradual and stealth abolishment of tariffs on each other's goods. But his smile waned once more hearing that the Falseans wanted to build a military base in Namor in turn for free trade. Which didn't make sense at all, considering that in his view, one shouldn't be holding trade hostage for military interests.

But on the other hand, the two countries had signed a non-aggression pact, so why fear?

"I agree to your terms, Secretary-General," he finally replied. "Free trade will commence in turn for the Falsean army to build a base off the coast of Namor. Also, we will look forward to abolishing tariffs on Falsean goods in Namor."

[Falsea]

The Secretary-General looked at Chen while Hopkins explained the terms of the trade agreement. The man was not feeling too eager to take on the proposal and Rourke could easily detect it in his eyes. The Secretary-General leaned back on his seat as he awaited for the President's response, and was all but delighted when he came into conclusion that the proposed terms would certainly come out for the best for both nations, at least, in the Secretary-General's eyes.

"Thank you for accepting the offer, I assure you, you will not regret. Trade will flourish between Namor and Falsea and you will be complacent that we are ready to lend a hand to the defense of your country's sovereignty at any moment you request.", he exclaimed, beaming at the Namorese delegation.

"I believe we've wrapped up the basics. Military cooperation and trade, if there are others you wish to suggest as well, we can consider it.", he said after, awaiting their response.

[Namor]

Chen nodded. "Very well," he began, "however I believe that we should talk more on the potential Falsean military base in Namor. First, terms and conditions. As long as Falsea recognizes that its base in Namor is sovereign territory of the People's Republic, then we will not worry.

"Now, on geographic position. There is some open space out in the northwest, particularily Txotai, where there is a strong influence of Luziycan imperialism which fortunately was wiped out 42 years ago. Just a few kilometers from Txotai, the Hippostanians have built a base in Breirholm, Geadland.

"But most alarmingly, the Hippostanians have built THREE bases near the Namo-Luziycan border, which can be used to aid Luziyca and back the regime up from so-called Namorese expansionism. I'm sure, Secretary-General, that you have seen this list issued by the Hippostanian government, which clearly states the intents ot these bases to 'defend Luziyca from Namorese Communists.' If this goes on, Hippostania and its Luziycan employees will take advantage of our national security.

"Which is why I have proposed that the Falseans built a base in Txotai, which is the gateway to Luziyca and our Geadish allies. I'm sure this is an opportunity your Party cannot forfeit--by building a naval or air base in Txotai, you are keeping Hippostanian and Luziycan expansionism in check and defending Namor at the same time. I will be shocked if your Party declines this offer, but now, may I ask your response on this?"

[Falsea]

"Of course, the sovereignty of Namor will always be respected above all, so you need not worry."

The Secretary-General assured Chen of this motion, sensing some distrust in his voice and felt complacent that this man had enough trust to Falsea for doing this act. The Namorese President then moved towards pointing out a suitable location for the military base. Another assistant arrived the hall again, bringing both a map and a file, the latter being handed to the Minister of State.

It was a list of military intelligence detailing the facilities Hippostania had placed on nations in Esquarium and a cause of concern not only for Namor, but also for Falsea. Hopkins reverberated an exclamation of disgust as she passed the dossier to Rourke.

"Apparently, it is true, sir. Not 1 nor 2,but 3 and possibly more military bases belonging to the Hippostanians are located in neighboring Luziyca, housing troops no smaller than half a hundred thousand men.", she exclaimed towards the other Falseans, her voice uneven as she spoke. The Secretary-General took the dossier and skim-read it a few times before speaking again.

"The tactics employed by the Hippostanian government are sneaky indeed, and they, alongside their Esquarium satellite states Luziyca and Zokoria, can easily march on Namor's backyard if they combine their forces. Thus it is imperative that the Falsean military base must be built in Txotai. Would you mind if we house over a hundred thousand troops in this base, which we shall possibly name...Fort Antelope? in honor of your country's national hero.", he said, taking a look at the map as well.

[Namor]

"That is not necessarily true, Secretary-General," Chen remarked when his Falseans counterpart said how with Hippostanian aid that the Luziycans and Zokorians are invincible. "While Zokoria might look grand and mighty from the outside, it is actually a crumbling regime. Our intelligence reports indicate that if Zokoria invades us, they won't even reach Novi Starkeville. Their state paper has also revealed that invading Namor is a bad idea. For now, it is Luziyca and Hippostania we are deeply concerned about.

"100,000 troops, you say, Secretary-General? Well, sure. Fort Antelope will be located on the coastline of Txotai, so the Falseans can also dispatch their navy if they want as well."

[Falsea]

"I will trust your word on that then, regarding Zokoria's fragile military, though the extensive presence of both Hippostanian influence and satellite states within Esquarium is a disturbing thought as well, so I must ask; are there other states within your region that have been threatened by Hippostanian interests, and if so, have measures been taken by said nations in order to repel this?", asked Rourke at Chen's statement. The Secretary-General wasn't exactly fond of extreme interventionism as well, yet the inevitable conclusion that to make friends with center-left and centrist nations, Falsea had to extend a hand of help towards their common enemies.

After the question had been answered, the Secretary-General finished his tea, leaving Hopkins to continue the conversation.

"So, President Chen, have you have some proposals that you would like to offer to Falsea as well, or any questions?"

[Namor]

"There is Geadland," said President Chen. "As I mentioned before, the Geadish government has allowed the Hippostanians to build a base in their soil; however, their government has done so in turn for Hippostania to view them neutrally, so we don't know what to do.

"I'm sure that there are many nations in Esquarium that have had a history of resisting Hippostanian expansionism," he continued on. "There's Iglesiantis, which Hippostania had attempted to invade after it agreed to headquarter Hippostanian political exiles, but I don't see why we should reach a hand out to them, considering that they have no army.

"And what about Nysa? I'm sure it has many anti-imperialist nations as well?"

[Falsea]

"Ah, so this ally of yours is afraid of Hippostania? such a shame. When the time of a Hippostanian invasion in your nation occurs, you will find yourself lacking neighbors to defend your sovereignty.", he said in a slightly low tone, berating the stance of Geadland regarding Hippostania's military might. Come to think of it, said country does have a formidable military and it would be wise to avoid making friends like that, he thought to himself.

The Namorese head of state also mentioned Iglesiantis, a nation that while not extremely left, often appeared positively in dossiers by the State Ministry. Hippostanian imperialism has reached extreme heights, and the Secretary-General found it more and more important to maintain a military presence within foreign nations in danger of attack, especially if the concepts of "socialism", or social democracy even, were common there.
The mention that Iglesiantis had no military didn't came as a surprise to the Secretary-General and he imagined if that country would be invaded, it would easily fall.

"Nysa has many nations that fall under 'national sovereigntist' type of nations, so I believe the region is safe. Though there are small forces that attempt to disturb the peace of the region, these nations, one is even a monarchy I might add, will not allow it. It's quite a hassle to even pass laws in the regional Parliament due to this.", he said jokingly.

"Well, I'am glad we had these talks to improve the bilateral ties of our two countries. I always hoped that Falsea would have excellent relations with other comrade states that believe in the ideologies of the left, more or less.", he stated beamingly, standing up to shake the hands of the delegates one last time before turning towards the State Minister.

"What's next on the agenda, Hopkins?", he asked the State Minister.

"Well, I believe we're going to visit a Namorese city now, to encourage investors from Namorese companies and to meet with the Falsean community here in Namor.", she said, standing up as well.

[Namor]

"It is because Geadland is virtually defenceless that we supply them with anything we have," Chen said. "As far as I know, the Hippostanians built the base in that country after the Treaty of Da Hegner was signed, which stated that as long as Hippostania viewed Geadland neutrally and vice versa, the Hippostanians will be allowed to have a military base in the country. Indeed, it is a foolish act--I'd rather have Namor view Hippostania unfavorably than having them build a base here."

When the Secretary-General announced that the meeting was adjourned, Chen stood up, smiling. "The pleasure is all mine, Secretary-General Rourke. Indeed, it seems that in a matter of hours, bilateral relations between our two countries have been improved. I do hope that this will continue." He shook the Falsean delegation's hands, followed by the other members of the Namorese government.

Chen then escorted the Falseans out of the Executive House. It was getting late, the sun had set, but it was still 7:00 pm. "I'm sure you are going to meet the leaders of the Communist Party in a few moments, eh?" he told the Secretary-General. "Why, good to see you planning on meeting with your comrade-in-arms." He chuckled, then escorted the Falseans into the limo.

He said one last good-bye as the limo headed for the Proletarian Building, headquarters of the Communist Party of Namor, located only five blocks away from the Executive House.

The Proletarian Building
Namo, Namor
19:15

---

The Communist Party of Namor, led by Chairman Noah Polinsky, had spent hours setting up a huge banquet for the arriving Falseans. Now, the time has come.

Inside the Proletarian Building was a huge meeting hall. Prior to the Falseans' visit, the Communists had put on a collage of red flags, the Namorese flag, and the Falsean flag. On the walls, one can also see the portraits of Marx, Lenin, Stalin, Mao and finally, of Falsean fame, Professor Thomas Heydrich, whom the Namorese Communists viewed as a definite role model.

"They're here, Chairman," said an assistant to Polinsky as the communists spotted a limo coming towards the pavilion.

The band started playing the Namorese anthem, the State Hymn of Falsea as well as the Internationale as the Falseans left their limos and approached Polinsky, who stepped forward.

"Hi there, Comrade Rourke! Pleased to meet you all," he greeted the Falseans warmly. "I, on behalf of the Namorese Proletariat and the Party Central Committee of the NCoP, welcome you all to Namor. Your country has been the role model of all working people here."